Ontario Takes Next Step Toward New Energy Generation in Haldimand County

HALDIMAND COUNTY — As part of its plan to protect Ontario and build a stronger, self-reliant economy, the government is announcing that Haldimand County will receive $500,000 from Ontario Power Generation (OPG) in growth readiness funding to explore opportunities for new energy generation, including small modular reactors, at OPG’s Nanticoke site. With existing electricity zoning up to 3,000 megawatts, access to major transmission infrastructure, rail lines, port access and industrial land in one of Ontario’s fastest growing regions, the 900-acre Nanticoke site is uniquely positioned to help meet the province’s future electricity needs.

"Ontario has a plan to breathe new life into OPG's Nanticoke Generating Station site, after the former government shuttered this job creator,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines and MPP for King—Vaughan. “Our government has a vision to generate power and jobs across Haldimand County by planning for new energy generation that fully unlocks the region's full potential. To meet electricity demand that is forecast to increase by as much as 90 per cent by 2050, we are planning ahead and building for future generations. We are taking another step forward to advance this project, in true partnership, including seriously considering small modular reactor deployment, to revitalize the economy and workforce."

Demand for electricity is forecast to increase by as much as 90 per cent by 2050, driven by rapid population growth, new housing, electrification, advanced manufacturing and the expansion of critical minerals supply chains. Meeting this demand will require significant expansion of Ontario's electricity system, including significant investments in all energy types. Building new generation today is essential to ensuring Ontario has the affordable, reliable and clean electricity needed to power economic growth, attract investment, and protect the province's long-term competitiveness.

“This potential for new energy generation is exciting for the region and all of Ontario,” said Will Bouma, Member of Provincial Parliament for Brantford-Brant and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation, to the Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth, and to the Premier. “Working with Indigenous partners, municipalities and local stakeholders to further secure the future demand for energy is vital and Ontario continues to lead the way.”

The closure of the Nanticoke Generating Station, once the largest coal-fired power plant in North America, marked a defining moment in Ontario's energy history. Today, the government is committed to helping write the next chapter for the site by supporting new investment, creating good-paying local jobs and ensuring Nanticoke once again plays a vital role in powering Ontario’s economy.

Following active engagement with the Ontario government and OPG, the Council of Haldimand County unanimously passed a motion on December 16, 2024, endorsing continued engagement with the generator and Ministry of Energy and Mines on the potential for new energy generation, including nuclear power, at the Nanticoke site. OPG will continue working with the local municipality and First Nations communities to support engagement and to outline the additional potential benefits and opportunities to host new energy generation. This announcement unlocks the next step in the process to allow for the municipality and OPG to sign a formal memorandum of understanding (MOU), advancing work on the site.

New energy generation at the Nanticoke site could provide benefits for Haldimand County and surrounding communities, including opportunities for economic development and the creation of good-paying jobs, equity participation by Indigenous communities, additional host community funding to support infrastructure investments and attract co-located industry, and increased municipal property taxes related to the project.

“Haldimand County is proud to be part of the conversation about Ontario's energy future,” said Shelley Ann Bentley, Mayor of Haldimand County. “For our community, opportunities like this are about more than energy generation. They are about supporting economic growth, creating opportunities for future generations, and helping build a prosperous and sustainable future for Haldimand County and surrounding communities.”

Advancing new generation opportunities at existing sites like Nanticoke plays a central role in Energy for Generations, the government’s first-ever integrated energy plan to ensure Ontario has the reliable, affordable power needed to support new homes, attract investment and drive economic growth. The government’s integrated approach and record investments in energy infrastructure are also providing the certainty needed for Indigenous communities, municipalities, businesses and industry partners to invest confidently in Ontario’s future. With a clear path forward, the plan is not only meeting the demands of today, but it is protecting jobs, supporting workers and powering economic growth for generations to come.

Quick Facts

• As Ontario’s largest power producer, OPG owns generating stations and properties across the province. Three of these sites – Wesleyville in Port Hope, Nanticoke in Haldimand County, and Lambton in St. Clair – are already zoned for electricity generation, have proximity to transmission, and are located in Southern Ontario, within regions experiencing significant growth.

• In December 2024, OPG began discussions with Indigenous, community and municipal leaders on its existing sites in Port Hope, Haldimand County, and St. Clair Township to determine community support for all types of new energy generation, including nuclear, to meet Ontario’s soaring demand for electricity.

• In February 2026, OPG signed a partnership agreement with the Municipality of Port Hope to advance planning and preparation for the world’s largest nuclear generating station at the Wesleyville site. The Wesleyville project would support 10,500 jobs across Ontario, including 1,700 new good-paying jobs in Port Hope, representing an average 15 to 20 per cent boost to overall employment levels in the local area, while contributing $235 billion to Ontario’s GDP over its lifespan.

Quotes

"Thank you to Minister Lecce and the Government of Ontario for this investment in our region’s energy future. This announcement recognizes the long-standing strategic role of the Nanticoke site as a hub for essential infrastructure that powers growth across Southwestern Ontario. Reliable energy infrastructure is essential to attracting new investment, supporting business and residential growth, and creating good-paying jobs. As neighbouring communities with closely connected economies, investments like this strengthen our region’s competitiveness and create opportunities that benefit Norfolk County residents, businesses, and future economic development."

- Amy Martin

Mayor, Norfolk County

"OPG understands the critical importance of engaging with communities early when considering siting new generation infrastructure. This funding will ensure Haldimand County has the capacity to engage fully on behalf of its residents as we work collaboratively to explore generation options for this site."

- Kim Lauritsen

Senior Vice President, Enterprise Strategy and Growth, OPG

"The Simcoe District Chamber of Commerce thanks Minister Lecce and the Government of Ontario for recognizing the strategic importance of the Nanticoke site. This kind of commitment signals real opportunity — the potential for good jobs, stronger supply chains, and new partnerships across both counties. As energy development advances, it can attract additional industry, support local businesses, and drive sustained economic growth. We see this as a chance to strengthen the entire region and build a more prosperous future for our communities."

- Renee VanKooten

President, Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce

"Ontario’s growing economy and electrification needs require a thoughtful, long-term approach to expanding the province’s electricity system. Leveraging existing energy sites like Nanticoke, with their established infrastructure, skilled workforce, and strong community partnerships, will be an important part of ensuring Ontario has the reliable, affordable and clean electricity needed to support future growth. OEA commends the Ontario government for its continued leadership and collaboration with industry, communities and Indigenous partners to advance opportunities that strengthen Ontario’s energy future."

- Vince Brescia

President and CEO, Ontario Energy Association

"APPrO applauds the continued engagement between the Council of Haldimand County and Ontario Power Generation with the Ministry of Energy and Mines on the potential for new energy generation at the Nanticoke site. With existing electricity zoning, access to major transmission infrastructure, and a location in one of Ontario’s fastest growing regions, the Nanticoke site is uniquely positioned to help meet the province’s future electricity needs. Building new generation today is essential to ensuring Ontario has the affordable, reliable and clean electricity needed to power economic growth, attract investment, and protect the province's long-term energy security."

- Colin Anderson

President and CEO, APPrO

"Minister Lecce is demonstrating important leadership in planning ahead to ensure Ontario has the reliable energy infrastructure needed to meet growing electricity demand and support economic growth. Exploring the potential for new firm generation at Nanticoke is a prudent step toward strengthening Ontario’s long-term electricity supply and reliability. For Ontario’s major industries, it is equally important that new investments are pursued in a way that keeps electricity affordable and our industries competitive. AMPCO looks forward to working with the government, OPG, communities and other partners to ensure future energy investments enhance supply and reliability while delivering affordable power for Ontario consumers and businesses."

- Brad Duguid

President and CEO, AMPCO

"We applaud Ontario’s recognition of the Nanticoke site as a potential location for new firm energy, including nuclear, to help meet rising electricity demand while creating new economic opportunities for Haldimand County. Exploring new energy generation at the site has the potential to create good-paying local jobs, support economic development, and provide opportunities for meaningful Indigenous participation and partnership."

- George Christidis

President and CEO, Canadian Nuclear Association

"OCNI congratulates Minister Lecce, Ontario Power Generation, and the Council of Haldimand County on advancing the exploration of new firm generation — including the potential for nuclear power — at the Nanticoke site. Canada's nuclear supply chain has the manufacturing, engineering, and skilled trades capacity to deliver projects like this with high domestic content, keeping economic value and good jobs in Ontario. We look forward to working together to turn this opportunity into lasting supply chain growth, including meaningful equity opportunities for Indigenous partners."

- Ivette Vera-Perez

President and CEO, Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries

"Energy Storage Canada welcomes the province’s commitment to advancing new firm energy generation at the Nanticoke site, an important step toward ensuring Ontario has reliable and affordable power as demand continues to grow. With over 3,500 megawatts of energy storage already procured, Ontario has built a strong foundation for flexibility and resilience. New generation at Nanticoke will complement the province's commitment to energy storage and strengthen the province’s ability to meet future demand with confidence."

- Justin Rangooni

President and CEO, Energy Storage Canada

"Reliable electricity is fundamental to Ontario's economic competitiveness, energy security and fuel supply reliability. As industries such as refining, manufacturing, and transportation continue to power our economy, ensuring access to dependable energy infrastructure is more important than ever. Nanticoke is already home to critical energy and industrial assets, and its industrial park has significant potential to attract new investment and support future growth. Exploring new firm generation opportunities at Nanticoke will help provide the reliable energy foundation needed to attract investment, support high-quality jobs and strengthen Ontario's long-term economic resilience."

- Landon Tresise

Director, Government and Stakeholder Relations, Canada Fuels Association

"Ontario's competitive advantage depends on maintaining a reliable, clean and affordable electricity system. With electricity demand growing alongside investment in manufacturing, critical minerals, data centres and other industries, it's encouraging to see the government taking action to build the capacity our economy will need. As we continue to expand the grid, affordable electricity ensures Ontario remains an attractive place to invest, grow businesses and create good jobs."

- Merran Smith

President, New Economy Canada

"Expanding Ontario's supply of clean electricity is key to further advancing the province's low-carbon hydrogen economy. Adding clean resources will enable competitive low-carbon hydrogen production while strengthening Ontario's electricity system, attract investment, grow the province's GDP, and create high-quality manufacturing and skilled trades jobs across the hydrogen value chain."

- Maike Althaus

Vice President, Government Relations and Public Affairs, Canadian Hydrogen Association (CHA)

Additional Resources

Energy for Generations

MEDIA CONTACT                                                                                              

Stephen Lecce, MPP for King—Vaughan

Constituency Office

Tel.: 647-560-9700        

Email: Stephen.Lecce@pc.ola.org